Remco Evenepoel finds lifeline in Islamic rituals with his wife during hard times: "Praying is something very unique that we share together"

After a great period in the middle of 2024 season, things went sideways for Remco Evenepoel past winter. But the Olympic champion pulled through the hardships and now is ready to finally write down his first start of 2025 - at Brabantse Pijl.

"We have prayed together often and will continue to do so, that is also something wonderful that you have taught me. It is wonderful to share that with you," wrote Remco Evenepoel earlier this week in an extensive and emotional message on Instagram. It should therefore come as no surprise that it was discussed again at the press conference for the Brabantse Pijl today.

"This past year I really got to know that - it's something I share with Oumi," Evenepoel replied. "For me it's a lifeline to get through life. It's a beautiful thing. Oumi and I prayed a lot and that was a lifeline during a difficult time."

Evenepoel shares certain values ​​and rituals from Islam with Oumi, things that he personally benefits from. This was already visible in images of the wedding party, which was also accompanied by a so-called Henna Day. That's the Moroccan bachelor party, so to speak.

In an exclusive interview with VTM NIEUWS, Evenepoel elaborated on this a bit more. "Praying is something very unique that we share together. It’s just a very nice moment together. It also ensures that you get a certain calmness about yourself, that you can accept things more easily. That has all ensured that I have become calmer inside. That I have started to deal with everything a bit more calmly, after a rather stormy period."

"I get extra strength and motivation from it. Asking for certain wishes, for example, and just making sure that everything remains stable. A nice support to have throughout the day."

Does Evenepoel want to convert too? "That hasn't been discussed yet. It's just something fun that we do at home. A nice thing that we share together."